Convert Videos to MP3 – Making Music Out Of Pictures

Remember the Sony Walkman? Many of you probably don’t, but may have heard stories about it from way back in ancient times. Then it was considered coolest thing ever to play portable audio on what were called cassette tapes. Oh, yes, those were the days!

The Walkman was the iPod of its time.

Now, with almost everything in media being digital (although, always keep in mind that the actual world of sight and sound is analog), tapes are a thing of the past.

Nearly twenty years ago, scientists and engineers developed a method of compressing sound so it could be stored on digital storage devices, and used for commercial products. One particular format was named MP3. It was part of a larger set of standards being developed called MPEG (Moving Pictures Experts Group.) The ultimate objective was to create a complete set of formats spanning all digital media, especially video. But audio was the easiest to deal with first.

MP3 has since changed music and the music business in dramatic ways.

TECHNOLOGY MAKES IT EASY FOR YOU TO CONVERT VIDEOS to MP3

The beauty of MP3 is that it puts quality sound in a variety of tiny, inexpensive packages that are easy to transport and enjoy.

Music To Your Ears

Like to listen to lectures found on the web, but don’t have time to watch the video? Use RealPlayer to create an audio file of the video, transfer it to your phone, and listen to it on the go.

Sound is special. You can become immersed in it while still doing something else. It can be soothing and energizing. It’s not like watching video where you must keep your eyes on the screen to receive the content. Audio is all around you, and unless you can shut it off or shut it out, you absorb it.

Aside from your favorite music video downloads, there are numerous educational videos, interviews, presentations and other material on the Internet that are possible to convert to MP3. You can also do the same thing with videos you shoot with camcorders or smart phones.

This is exactly the kind of convenience and enjoyment today’s digital media technology provides.

DOWNLOADING MUSIC VIDEO PERFORMANCES

There’s a restaurant nearby that has live music, played by local artists every night. Sometimes those performances are videotaped and posted on the restaurant’s website for free viewing and downloading for personal use. The musicians all agree to this in advance, so there are no copyright problems.

While browsing the site, I found a performance by one of my favorite musicians. The video wasn’t especially good, but the music was. If you don’t already have a video you want to convert, it is easy to find free MP4 videos to download.

I decided to download it and convert to MP3 so I could easily listen to it at home, on my iPhone, iPod or through my car stereo system.

The video was nearly 16 minutes long. In the MP4 format at 720p resolution, it came in just over 240 MB.

The download process is as simple as it can be using RealPlayer Downloader. Just hover the cursor in the video frame and the “Download This Video” button appears in the upper right of the frame. Just click, and the download begins, saving the video in the RealPlayer Library. (If you don’t have RealPlayer, just click on the orange button in the top right hand corner of this page. It’s quick to install and free.)

CONVERT VIDEOS TO MP3

Because the video was already in the Library, all that’s necessary is to click on the thumbnail to open a menu with the Convert option. This opens the RealPlayer Converter and inserts the video in the list.

With MP3 as my target format, I wanted to get better sound quality, so clicked on the Details button, and set the bit rate to 256 Kbps instead of the default 128.

The next steps are to simply click OK, then Start, and let the conversion begin. That’s how easy it is to convert videos to mp3.

It only took about 30 seconds to crunch the 240 MB MP4 video into a 29 MB MP3 audio file. The only other thing I needed to do was transfer the converted file to my iPhone and iPod.

I also put the music on a USB flash drive I carry on my key chain, so it can be transported anywhere, loaded into the car stereo and shared with others.

MP3 – IT STARTED A REVOLUTION IN DIGITAL MEDIA

The old Sony Walkman was an innovation in its time. But today’s digital media world is different. Not only is a process like recording the audio portion of a video program faster, far simpler and better quality, digital has changed the way media is perceived and used. The boundaries of who can have access to the necessary tools to create, manipulate and distribute every type of media have been removed forever. And MP3 led the way in that change, and it’s doing more of the same in converting video to MP3.

Please let me know if you have any questions about how to convert videos to MP3 by leaving a comment below.

About The Author

129 Comments

By Arrie Posted on March 27, 2012

I know about Real Player, I used to use it some time ago and I thought it was pretty cool. Now I use Audials Tunebite which also works with comverting mp4 to mp3 and even though the UI is not as nice as with Real Player, it does a bunch of things that this other one doesn’t. But I guess for converting purposes only a free soft would be best.

By chloe Posted on March 27, 2012

Really good post here
Thank you for sharing it, I look forward to learning more from you in the future!

By Tom Volotta Posted on March 31, 2012

chloe,

Thank you. Glad you enjoyed the post. More on the way.

By Tom Volotta Posted on March 31, 2012

Arrie,

I don’t know much about Audials Tunebite, so took a look at their website.

It’s regular price for Platinum is $49.90, so the Free RealPlayer would seem to be a bargain to say the least. Not sure what extra things it does, but RealPlayer has a good set of profiles and settings for converting MP4 to MP3.

One thing about Audials is their claim they can “Legally record, convert & enjoy copy protected music, movies & DVDs.” I know it goes on all the time, but whether it is actually legal to use anything copy protected in this way has always been a controversial issue.

Hey Tom Volotta, I’m very glad to find somewhere/someone to finally help me to load video to audio MP3 to a USB flash drive. Can the videos from youtube be converted as well ? Please give me a step-by-step start to finish method ’cause I’m kind-a-dummy about how to get a music playlist into my USB flash drive. Thanks very much! Looking forward to your reply, Tom

By Tom Volotta Posted on May 17, 2012

If you’ve got the video, you should be able to convert to MP3, regardless of the source.
It’s possible the video has DRM (Digital Rights Management) code that might block you from using copyrighted material.

Just plug the USB flash drive into your computer, and then drag the MP3 file(s) to it.

If you’re talking about the data that comprises an actual, existing ‘playlist’ itself – I have no idea. I suppose you could create folders on the flash drive to hold specific titles, but I don’t think that’s what you’re asking about. Add the new MP3s to the playlist of whatever device you’re porting to.

Connect the phone to your computer. When they’re synced, drag the file, or possibly use a menu option to transfer the MP3 file(s) from the music or media library on the computer to the music library on your phone.

…TV

By Nikita Posted on June 26, 2012

I have a question:
Just downloaded RealPlayer to convert a video on my PC to mp3. I had tried on VLC but wasn’t having any luck, and it seems that I am not having any here either. Every time I press start a window pops us asking me to upgrade, and when I try to intercept, an error message pops up. Help? I am by no means clued up on this stuff, so small words would be great hahahahaha

By Tom Volotta Posted on June 26, 2012

You didn’t mention what video file format and codec you’re trying to convert from, but I’ll take a guess that it might be MP4/H.264. This issue has cropped up before. If it is MP4, RealPlayer by itself won’t handle it. That’s why you’re being prompted to upgrade to RealPlayer Plus.

Assuming it is MP4, a quick fix without upgrading is to download and install QuickTime for Windows. That will enable RealPlayer to play, convert and whatever with MP4/H.264. If by chance the file format is MKV, you’re out of luck on converting. Matroska can be played in RP by installing the CCCP codec pack, but it can’t yet be converted.

Let me know a few more details about your video file format, and if the QuickTime install helps.

Wow, Just what I was looking for. Quality and finnesse thanks for posting this wonderful piece of information

By Tom Volotta Posted on June 26, 2012

And a “Wow” back at you. It’s a pleasure to be of help. Thanks for the kind words.

…TV

By Nikita Posted on June 27, 2012

Tom, thank you, thank you, thank you! You were right on the money! as soon as I downloaded quicktime, the conversion happened in no time! Thank you for your great advice and quick answer to my query.

A very happy chappy!

Nikita

By Tom Volotta Posted on June 27, 2012

That’s great, Nikita. Sometimes the simplest solution is the best solution.

Thanks for getting back that things worked out. I appreciate it.

…TV

By MothersaurusRegina Posted on July 4, 2012

In that I am a dinosaur, I’d like to thank you for making this the easiest, most painless tutorial ever!!

By Tom Volotta Posted on July 4, 2012

Don’t be hard on yourself. All the different formats, codecs and lingo about converting is confusing to begin with. RealPlayer really does a nice job making the process as smooth as possible.

…TV

By Teddy Posted on July 21, 2012

how do you transfer the converted file to my iphone and ipad?

By Tom Volotta Posted on July 21, 2012

Be sure iTunes is installed. After converting to an Apple compatible format, RealPlayer will prompt you to send the file(s) to the iTunes Library. Do it. Connect the iPhone/iPad/iPod to the computer. Transfer the media to them from iTunes.

Existing Apple compatible files in the RealPlayer Library can also be moved to iTunes, then to your Apple devices.

…TV

By James Posted on July 25, 2012

The QuickTime tip also saved me a lot of hassle. I had no problems converting files in the past, but I bought a new laptop and couldn’t figure out why the files weren’t converting. Found your helpful answer to someone else’s question and it was as easy as you said.

Thanks very much!

By Tom Volotta Posted on July 25, 2012

You’re welcome, James. Happy the QT fixed worked for you.

Thanks for reading the piece, the comments and my responses to look for a solution, and especially for going to the effort to post your kind comment. I’ll be sure to pass this along to my boss!!! 😉

…TV

By Luis Posted on July 26, 2012

Hope it works

By Tom Volotta Posted on July 27, 2012

Me too.

…TV

By Earl Posted on August 5, 2012

When I press the green start button it brings me to a Real Player Ad and doesn’t convert the file. Any help would be appreciated.

By Tom Volotta Posted on August 5, 2012

What file format are you converting from? MP4? If so, the Converter in free RealPlayer chokes. RP plays MP4 fine. Just doesn’t handle conversion either direction. You’re being prompted to buy the upgrade to RealPlayer Plus. You may be having the same problem as Nikita above. I suggest the same solution.

Well, I am looking for a mp4 converter converter that can run smoothy on Windows 7, because most of them are not compatible with this OS.

By Tom Volotta Posted on August 6, 2012

Hmmm… I’ve used a half dozen or more converters, and have found they perform just fine with Windows 7.

RealPlayer runs nicely under Windows 7, and has a built-in converter. But, to convert to or from MP4, you’ll either need to upgrade to RealPlayer Plus, or download and install QuickTime for Windows, to use with the free RealPlayer. RealPlayer Converter will then do smooth conversions of MP4. Another option (which you might want to do even if you do get QT) is to download and install the CCCP codec pack. Your MP4 conversions should run well, plus RealPlayer will also be able to play MKV (Matroska) files. Read the CCCP Instructions first. You may want to run their “Insurgent” program before installing CCCP.

Get back to me if you have a problem.

…TV

By Bill Posted on August 9, 2012

Just wondering, does anyone know which option to pick to view something downloaded on an iPod or iPad so I can watch it?

By Tom Volotta Posted on August 9, 2012

Sure. Read “Watch Video Whenever and Wherever On Your iPod.” The same process applies to the iPad, just select it instead of iPod in the list of devices in the RealPlayer Converter. Before doing the transfers to Apple products, I’d advise downloading and installing QuickTime for Windows. This helps insure any MP4 conversions will go smoothly in the free RealPlayer. RealPlayer Plus has it built-in. You’ll also need iTunes for Windows on your machine to move the converted media into the iTunes Library, and then to the iPad/iPod/iPhone.

…TV

By Andrea Posted on August 23, 2012

I’m having the same problem converting .avi to .mp4 using Windows 7. Quicktime is installed on my computer, and the videos play in RealPlayer, but I can’t get past the ads. Help, o magical knowledge dude.

By Tom Volotta Posted on August 24, 2012

Although you’re not converting to MP3 audio, based on the little bit described, I’m stumped. Sounds like you’ve got what you need. My system is set up the same way, and things run smooth here. Not sure why the prompt for RP+ (I assume that’s what you mean by ‘can’t get past the ads.’) when trying to do the conversion. Without more detailed info about specific Converter settings that might be triggering the ad prompt, my magical suggestion would be to do a complete UNinstall of RealPlayer, and any other RealPlayer applications on your machine, and then do a fresh download and install of the current version of RealPlayer.

Sorry that’s all I’m coming up with right now, but it might work. RP Tech Support often recommends the re-install technique.

…TV

By Andrea Posted on August 25, 2012

Yeah, I was afraid it would come to that. 🙂 Thanks anyway.

By Tom Volotta Posted on August 25, 2012

Andrea,

Yeah, sort of a non-answer, answer. It’s not too big a deal doing UNinstall/Download RP/REinstall though. Just annoying. It may do the trick. If you’re going to do that, I’d do the same with QuickTime, just to be thorough. Although it probably has nothing to do with your problem, I would also download and install iTunes for Windows. If you need to transfer any media to an Apple mobile device, you’ll need to go through iTunes anyway, so could come in handy. Another option for getting the right codec RealPlayer will be able to do conversions with MP4 is to download and install the CCCP codec pack. That’ll also allow RealPlayer to play, but not convert, MKV files also. Be sure to follow the instructions on installing CCCP. They do mention needing to UNinstall any other codec packs that might be on your machine, but keep QuickTime installed. I have both running and have never had any problems with conflicts.

It sounds like you’re set up correctly, but drag youself through the uninstall/reinstall stuff. Hope it does work. Please let us know.

…TV

By Jac Posted on September 3, 2012

Hi

i have the same problem as number 12

my video was recorded on panosonic lumix camera and is an mp4. i only just figured out how to watch it on my computer now i want to use it to make my mini clips into one video. what do you recommend for doing this? just a simple joining of mini clips into one – no fancy editing needed. i saw one video edit software thing where mp4’s cannot be used but i dont know what i should use instead. I followed your advice downloading the quick time for windows and i can now convert some things from mp4 but what should i be converting it to for my mini film project and then what software should i use to combine my mini clips?

thanks very much you seem like the person to ask 🙂

By Tom Volotta Posted on September 4, 2012

Unfortunately, RealPlay can only Trim the head or tail from a clip. It cannot join segments together.

Depending on the editing software, you probably DON’T need to convert the MP4 to another format. Avoid that if at all possible. Unless you have access to some very high-end professional gear, changing formats will only degrade the original MP4 quality the Lumix captured.

On the Free side, try Windows Movie Maker. It should handle MP4 (MPEG-4)/H.264. Simple cuts, some nice transitions, titles, etc. are all there.

If you want to spend a few bucks, and step up to a superior interface, and a raft of extra features (which you might find yourself growing into), I’d suggest Sony Movie Studio (formerly named Sony Vegas Movie Studio HD 11.) Movie Studio is still the entry level for the Vegas product line, and at a reasonable $45, it really does a lot. You can download a free trial version.

I am having the same problem as most of the guys here. I have bought a samsung galaxy tablet and want to transfer my music which is MP4MEG to MP3 files because the samsung does not recognise MP4MEG. I have downloaded real player and quick time and its not doing the job.

Any other suggestions?

Cheers,

By Tom Volotta Posted on September 6, 2012

Guy,

I’m a little lost. Just did an MP4/H.264 conversion to MP3 (@ 320kbps) on a Galaxy Tab through the RealPlayer Converter (using an un-named Grammy Award winning artist) and it worked perfect. I’m using RealPlayer Plus because I just got done writing a piece about DVD burning. But, that shouldn’t make a difference if using the regular RP with QT or CCCP installed.

The only thing that might be causing a glitch is the new Galaxy Tab, and even that’s a stretch. I can’t imagine Samsung putting some twitchy software that would prevent a simple conversion from MP4 video to MP3 audio. Their specs even call for it. If you’re machine is the Galaxy Tab 2, it shouldn’t have a problem with MPEG-2/H.264 to begin with.

Sorry I don’t have a real solution. More detailed info?

…TV

By Jac Posted on September 7, 2012

Hi Tom thanks for your reply. i downloaded windows movie maker the other day and that is the one that would not accept mp4 🙁 any other ideas for free software?

By Tom Volotta Posted on September 8, 2012

Well, that’s a pain! It should. At least it’s listed as doing so. A couple of things: be sure Windows Essentials is installed, along with DirectShow. It that doesn’t work, try installing CCCP, although DirectShow sometimes doesn’t like other codec packs.

Also remember there are TWO free Microsoft video editing programs. Windows Live Movie Maker and Windows Movie Maker 2.6. It runs fine in Windows 7. Many people still like 2.6 better. Can be confusing, Microsoft doesn’t go out of their way to clearly distinguish between the two.

I find Microsoft can be twitchy when it comes to getting the right set of support software and drivers installed. One of these should get the job done for you. I’ve used both, and they worked fine. Widows may have an aversion to MP4/H.264, but they’ve relented and do support. It is the most used format/codec on the Internet. Here’s a review of other free Windows video editing software, that you may find suits your needs. I found the Windows products to be much more intuitive and easy to use. You can download the others to see what works best for you. If you do want to pay some bucks, I’d still recommend the entry level Sony Vegas product. You may find yourself working up into more sophisticated editing, and for the price, it’s hard to beat. Unless you’re running a Mac with iMovie.

Let me know how things are going.

…TV

By Marlize Posted on September 20, 2012

I’ve recorded a session at our conference on my laptop to watch and compare to my notes… how do I copy the video file from my ipad to my pc? The clips are 35 min each – not able to mail it.

By Tom Volotta Posted on September 20, 2012

Install iTunes and QuickTime for Windows. Connect the iPad, and drag your iPad movies to iTunes. Play them. Should be a snap.

…TV

By Johnathan O'Donoghue Posted on October 9, 2012

i have mp4 movies and i put them on a usb and try play them through the dvd player bu they won’t work i need to change the mp4 to video wich can be played on the dvd player will this software change the format of mp4 to video

By RealPlayer Posted on October 9, 2012

It should do you know what format you want to convert the MP4 videos to?

By Johnathan O'Donoghue Posted on October 9, 2012

DVD/Video format

By Johnathan O'Donoghue Posted on October 9, 2012

OH NO i can’t install it i don’t have the right windows computer

By Tom Volotta Posted on October 10, 2012

You can put MP3 audio files on the DVD-R format, so it simply acts as a storage media, or bit-bucket, for MP3 or other data files. But DVD-Video is a format specifically designed for encoding as MPEG-2 or MPEG-1 video.

…TV

By Tom Volotta Posted on October 10, 2012

My guess would be you need a different computer. You could either get a pure Windows machine, or an Intel Mac, which can run Windows directly from BootCamp, as if it was a Windows machine. Or, you can run OS X and Windows simultaneously through a program such as Parallels or VM Ware Fusion.

…TV

By Tom Volotta Posted on October 10, 2012

Johnathan,

Judging from several of the comments you’ve posted, aside from apparently not having the right computer, you seem to be bumping into a number of issues regarding converting video files to MP3 audio, the DVD/Video format in general and trying to play MP4 video from a USB flash drive on a DVD player.

Here’s how it works. The DVD-Video format is a particular set of technical specifications allowing MPEG-2 and MPEG-1 content to be decoded from DVD media by software and hardware, purpose-built for this task. You can not simply record another format, such as MP4, or MKV, or WMV or whatever onto a DVD-Video, or put it on a flash drive and necessarily expect the DVD player to recognize, decode and properly play that video. DVD-Video players were designed for MPEG-2 and MPEG-1 content.

There IS an exception to this which has been growing, both in the home, consumer market, but also in the automobile industry, where SPECIALLY configured DVD players have the ability to decode and then play formats such as MP4, IF the special DVD player in fact has the decoding software and hardware to properly decode the format stored on the device. There are all kinds of quality of decoders also. The MP4 format can be stored on a USB flash drive, solid-state memory card or on DVD media that has been burned in such a way that is is essentially just another storage medium, like you would treat a CD-ROM to store data files. These special DVD players have decoding ‘players’ that can read and playback the MP4 format. Not all special players will accept USB, memory cards and DVD-R, so you much check the specifications of the device carefully.

Another issue which may be creating problems for you is either the quality of the content on the media, or possibly a Digital Rights Management (DRM) snag. Many, many things can be downloaded from the Internet, or shared among friends and members of social websites, but that does not mean your movie will playback properly.

Your essential question comes down to how to convert the MP4 video you currently have (that aren’t working), to a format that will. That would be DVD-Video, encoded as MPEG-2. It is likely you will lose some video quality in the process. Careful adjustment of resolution and bit rate quality will help keep better quality. If the channels are there in the original, you can also transfer the sound to Dolby Digital 5.1 (aka AC3).

Again, given all the format problems you’ve been having, the simplest thing to do is transcode the MP4 content to DVD-Video. RealPlayer Plus can do this for you. It’s a fairly straight-forward process of converting the MP4 into the proper format for DVD-Video. BTW: check the DVD Forum for more than you’ll ever want to know about DVDs.

Let us know if any of this is of help to you, or if it’s just creating more headaches.

…TV

By tulsianandpatel Posted on October 10, 2012

Hi Tom,
I have Windows 7 & IE9. Using Realplayer (v 15.0.6.14). With the Download button appearing on top of videos being played in IE9 I have downloaded videos which are saved as Flash Video. When I play the video and click on convert, select Apple iPhone 4, then select Start I get a pop up for Upgrade now to Real player Plus 15.
In your solution to Nikita you have mentioned to install Quicktime.
My questions are around this – 1. will the solution solve my problem?
2. will that impact the ability of IE9 to play Listen LIVE online radio http://www.sunriseradio.com?
In my past experience when I had installed Vuze and VLC player, this had caused the online radio to stop playing. Even after uninstalling these, IE9 could not play Listen LIVE online radio http://www.sunriseradio.com. Does it have to do with codecs getting affected? Will that happen now as well?
I would really appreciate your views & guidance based on your experience. Thanks.

By Tom Volotta Posted on October 10, 2012

My set-up is similar, and yes, the “Nikita” solution will work on the conversion problem. The basic issue is RealPlayer will “PLAY” MP4, but to convert in either direction, including to an iPhone 4, that feature is only available in RealPlayer Plus. That’s why you’re getting the upgrade prompt. RealPlayer does document this, but they don’t exactly shout it out.

Regarding ‘Sunrise’ radio, I really don’t know if IE9 would work properly without some special settings. My opinion is that it’s NOT a codec causing the problem with listening to Live Online Radio, rather, I think it’s related to the media players installed. I don’t know if VLC and/or Vuze is creating a problem. What I do know is that I have far fewer problems when I assign RealPlayer as the default player. That may be because I work so much with RealPlayer that I don’t want anything interfering with its operation. When I specifically install QuickTime and/or iTunes, and am prompted to make it the default player, I do NOT. If I need to use a particular player, that’s easy enough to do.

Not really being familiar with ‘Sunrise’ I’d double check their optimum player requirements, paying particular attention to any player conflicts they feel may cause a problem. Also check IE9 to see if it needs a preference set to better play ‘Sunrise.’ Even though you tried this, start out by UNinstalling VLC and Vuse, If that doesn’t do it, assign RealPlayer as the default to see if that helps if the IE9 preference settings don’t work out. You can always re-install the others as necessary.

Let us know if some combination of the above works for you.

…TV

By Tom Volotta Posted on October 15, 2012

What are you trying to download, and from where? There have been occasional reports of DTV not working on YouTube. It also may be that the content you’re trying to download from a particular site is copy protected, in which case “Download This Video” won’t activate. The standard advice from Tech Support is to UNinstall, then do a fresh install of RealPlayer. It’s fairly quick to do the re-install thing. Just make sure you Uninstall ALL RealPlayer application files. Don’t worry, your library of videos and music will NOT be affected.

…TV

By RealPlayer Posted on October 16, 2012

Which browser are you using?

By Tom Volotta Posted on October 18, 2012

I’m confused.

On one hand, you’re saying you we’re downloading OK with IE8 and Firefox, then lost download capability when upgrading to IE9. Downgraded IE9 back to IE8, refreshed RealPlayer, and could then again download video through Firefox. But what isn’t clear to me is your last statement “…but not IE8, for whatever reason.” What does that mean? It sounds like a contradiction. You’re downloading OK with IE8 and Firefox, but not with IE8. I’m lost as to what you are meaning. Is there a typo where you are getting IE8 and 9 out of sequence in your description of your troubleshooting? What Windows OS are you using?

What I’d suggest is to start over as cleanly as you can. Get to the most up to date system possible. UNinstall RealPlayer. UNinstall Firefox. Upgrade to IE9 (unless the other problems you mentioned absolutely prohibit it.) Download and install the newest version of Firefox, AND be sure to add any RealPlayer plug-ins. Download and install RealPlayer. Maybe even do a virus scan and other disc clean-up techniques along the way

Let us know if any of this works, or if there some clarification of the issue that needs to be made. FWIW: I run IE9 with Windows 7 Pro, and can download through RealPlayer/Firefox with no problems.

…TV

By bill Posted on October 19, 2012

Cant understand it. I converted everything to MP3, and it plays on my computer fine. I purchased a CRAIG Electronics boombox because it boasts a usb port and plays MP3s.

So I put my MP3s on my USB flashdrive (shaped like R2-D2 no less) and put it in the boombox. It does not recognize the files. Says NOF, meaning no files.

What am I doing wrong?

I thought perhaps to look into properties and says “open file with” and is defaulted to Windows Media Player. I am given other options, like open with: Real Player, Adobe, Windows Movie Maker, etc. How about just a friggin “it opens”??

By Tom Volotta Posted on October 19, 2012

I doubt R2-D2 has a grudge against MP3, and it doesn’t sound like you’re doing anything wrong. I have no idea why the Craig Boombox isn’t playing your music. I took a quick look at CD6953 and CD6952 specs (not very detailed), as they seemed to be the only models that handled USB/MP3. There isn’t anything that gives a clue as to why the MP3s aren’t playing. Are you getting this “open file with” and default to WMP info from the file Properties on RealPlayer? Can you play the MP3 files directly from the USB on your computer (not from the file residing on the computer) or some other device (even a TV set) that can play MP3?

Are there any instructions with the Craig that suggest a default player it wants to see? Seems hard to believe that a product like this would be especially picky about playing an MP3 file. Maybe the Craig is defective? Take it and R2-D2 back to where you bought it and see if they can make it work. Sorry I’m not being more helpful.

…TV

By Joe t Posted on October 20, 2012

Hey tom feeling a lil dumb right now . i downloaded realplayer to convert videos to mp3 . the down load to realplayer doesn’t show up in the upper right hand corner . what could be wrong … thanks for any help u could give . Joe t

By Tom Volotta Posted on October 21, 2012

Don’t feel dumb. It’s a software problem, not something you’re doing. Chrome has been giving everyone fits, so if you using that, switch to Firefox or IE9. On Firefox, make sure you download and install the RealPlayer Plug-in. You’ll get a prompt for that. What website(s) are you trying to download from? There had been some snags with YouTube, but I thought those had been ironed out.

…TV

By tulsianandpatel Posted on October 27, 2012

Hi Tom,
Apologies for being unable to get back to you earlier. I did download Quicktime for Windows as per the ‘Nikita’ solution. Restarted my PC. However even now when i play the flash video with realplayer and click on convert. I get the window convert Apple iphone4 and click on start. However I am still getting the pop up for Upgrade now to Real player Plus 15.
Could you please advice & help as your guidance is appreciated.

By Tom Volotta Posted on October 28, 2012

I am simply NOT having any problem converting FLV video to either MP3 (192 kbps VBR) or even AAC (@320 kbps, no VBR) through the Apple iPhone4 settings. The more prominent issue was with trying to convert MP4 to anything. RealPlayer will PLAY MP4, but no conversion in either direction. When I click the Green Start button, the conversion runs the way it should. NOT getting any prompt to the RP+ upgrade. Flash can use Spark (very out of date), VP6 (old technology) or H.264 (the best thing going until H.265 hits in 2013) for encoding. QT is to make the H.264 codec (in MP4) work in converting with RealPlayer. My MP3 and AAC files play perfectly fine.

The full “Nikita” solution also included downloading and installing the CCCP pack for some extra capabilities, mainly being able to Play, not convert, Matroska (MKV) files. CCCP also contains other codecs that might be useful in RealPlayer.

I’m just taking a very wild guess (emphasis on “guess”) here, but it’s possible there’s some upgrade to the VP6 codec in the FLV file format container that may be what is causing RealPlayer to balk and give you the RP+ prompt. Normally RealPlayer should handle VP6 fine. There’s so much confusion and so much overlapping technologies with file formats and codecs (two completely different things, but often spoken of as if they were interchangeable) it’s no wonder there are complications.everybody is always tinkering with them also, causing troubles to ripple through the digital world.

So, download CCCP (download and run the “Insurgent” first though.) Let me know if that solves your problem. If it doesn’t, then unfortunately, I’m out of suggestions for now.

…TV

By Tom Volotta Posted on October 28, 2012

It sounds like doing the upgrade to IE9 left something clinging that IE8 doesn’t like, and is preventing you from downloading video. I’ll bet you already figured that out!

I have IE9 on my Windows 7 Pro system, and rarely use it. It’s too twitchy for reliable use, IMO. Freezes up a lot. I typically use Firefox, and have few problems. Be sure to get the RealPlayer plug-in for downloading. I never use Chrome because it just seems to be a little weird in the way it works. My second choice after Firefox is Safari. I have a dual-boot system, running both Windows and Mac OS X, and use Safari almost exclusively on the Mac, so am very familiar with it, and find it’s pretty stable, especially on the Mac, and Widows too.

Are there things you MUST use IE8 for? If so, and you can’t just work with Firefox, I’d get somebody who really knew how to COMPLETELY remove any traces of IE9, and then reinstall IE8.

All pretty obvious options, but that’s all I’ve got! Good Luck.

…TV

By heang lee Posted on November 3, 2012

Is the the sound quality of MP3 as good as a CD?

By Tom Volotta Posted on November 4, 2012

No. MP3 sound quality is not as good as CD. It was never designed to be.

Without getting too technical, MP3 is a much more highly compressed format, intended to create small file sizes for online distribution and the limited storage space on mobile devices. CDs use a much higher sampling and bite rates than MP3. This means more data at faster speeds are devoted to CDs than to the typical MP3 format. More is better in this regard.

Many other elements are involved in perceived audio quality. An individual’s actual hearing capability, the transducer (speakers or headphones), type of sound system being played through, surrounding noise and need for convenient mobility all enter into the final sound quality you will actually hear. Bottom line: CD audio is much better than MP3. Many musicians hate what they consider the poor quality of MP3 because it does not accurately convey the full sound of the music experience the artist has created. But under certain conditions, MP3 is either ‘good enough’ or may be the only option available to listening.

…TV

By Jim O'Dell Posted on November 13, 2012

Never mind, Tom. I thought I already had the Quicktime player in the computer, but didn’t. That fixed the issue. Will need to do it on the laptop now. Still not sure why it did one song then quit, but I’m good to go so I won’t worry about that one. Jim.

By Tom Volotta Posted on November 13, 2012

Jim,

Well, that was an easy one!

For me, it’s the other way around. There’s probably all kinds of stuff that IS on my machine that I DON’T know is there. So much application software and even things you think are regular files, contain other little applications, defaults to install something in your browsers and so on. You really have to be careful when installing things now. Don’t just click through the “Agree” or “Next” buttons without reading exactly what you might being loading into your computer. You can opt-out of most all of the little tag-alongs, so you just get the software you want and need. I’ve got Double-Trouble here because I run an Intel Mac that dual-boots the Mac OS X and Windows 7 Pro to run simultaneously. There’s some cross pollination that’s going on, which can mess with both OSs.

…TV

By Allan Green Posted on November 22, 2012

I am a most enthusiastic fan of YouTube and have a large number of videos in my RealPlayer library.
However, there is one problem which I have been unable to solve. I do not know how to transfer the video from the RealPlayer library to iTunes except by burning a cd or dvd. This is a very cumbersome and roundabout way to achieve my ultimate aim, which is simply to transfer the audio element to my ipod classic. I would be very grateful for any constructive advice.

Wow, Great info and knowledge you have…Do you happen to know if I could use a USB Stick to run (Operate) Real Player? I have a Windows XP with about 37 GB and it seems that sometimes Real Player zaps my OS
I just purchased a 16 Gig and also a 32 Gig and my XP has like 6 USB Ports I believe…Just thought I would move Real Player there and hopefully free up the main OS.

Thanks

By Tom Volotta Posted on November 26, 2012

Allan,

“Cumbersome” is putting it mildly. You’re going to a lot of unnecessary, extra effort. Sorry to hear you’ve been burning CDs and DVDs just to get sound from a video clip onto your iPod. Here’s all you need to do to convert a video with audio to just the audio for your iPod:

1. Find the video clip(s) in the RealPlayer Library you want to extract the audio from.

2. Hover the cursor over the clip thumbnail, click “More” from the pop-up menu and then click “Convert” from the drop-down menu that appears.

3. The RealPlayer Converter will open, and the clip will be in the list to convert

4. You can also accomplish the above by doing a right-click on the thumbnail, then click on “Convert to…” on the pop-up menu.

5. In the RealPlayer Converter, click the “Convert to” button. The name of the last device the converter transferred to will be in that button. Even if it says ‘iPod”, click the button.

6. The “Select a Device” dialog window opens. You will see a list of the device categories RealPlayer Converter can transfer to.

7. Click either “Portable Media Players” or “Show All.” The Apple iPad and iPod will be at the top of both listings.

9. Click the “details” button in the blue highlight. Now, custom settings for the Apple iPod are shown in a new window.

10. Under “Video Details” click on the “Format” drop-down menu and click on “Audio Only.” This will strip just the sound from the clip.

11. Under “Audio Details” go to the “Format” drop-down menu to pick either AAC or MP3. The Apple default is AAC. Use that.

12. Under “Quality” again click on the drop-down menu to select the bit rate you want. Default is “128 kbps Stereo.” You should check the bit rate for the audio on the original video clip. If it’s 128, upping the Converted bit rate to 256 kbps won’t make it sound better. If the original IS 256, and you have the storage space on your iPod, I’d use 256 just to keep the same quality. Downgrading to 128 on the iPod won’t be technically as good. 256 kbps ‘should’ sound better, in particular for dynamic range. Your choice also depends on your hearing, and whether you’re going to be listening only through headphones, or are going to run through a good quality audio system. It may not matter if it’s 128, 256, 320 or whatever.

13. Click the “OK” button in the lower right. Click “OK” in the “Select a Device” window.

14. Double-check the “Save in:” location where you want the new audio file to be stored. Choices include, Same directory as original, My Music, My Video and Browse. Clicking “Browse” lets you pick any folder you have already created.

15. Click the green “Start” button.

16. The conversion runs, and when done, will show a “Conversion Complete” dialog showing the number of files successfully converted.

17. Since this is an Apple iPod you are transferring to, you must use iTunes to move the music from the computer to the iPod. Under “Files converted” there will be a box with a check mark (default for Apple) already there, and the words “Add converted files to my iTunes Library.” Click “OK.” iTunes will open, and the music file(s) put in the Music Library.

18. Connect the iPod to the computer. Once sync is complete, just drag what you want from the iTunes Library into the Music Library on your iPod.

DONE.

Don’t worry about what first appears to be a ton of steps. It’s really very fast. Just looks more complicated when it’s written out step-by-step.

Let us know if you run into a snag.

…TV

By Tom Volotta Posted on November 26, 2012

Logan,

First, thank you. Hopefully the info on the site is helpful.

I don’t know why RealPlayer would be messing up Windows XP. What do you mean by “…zaps my OS” ?? Does Windows crash? Do you have to do a reinstall of the OS? Does RealPlayer crash?

I am not sure about running the RealPlayer application from a USB thumb drive. It may well work, however, if in fact RP and XP aren’t playing nice together, putting RealPlayer on an external device shouldn’t all of a sudden make things better. They still have to talk to each other.

Also, if you’re going to use multiple storage devices, the general practice is to run the OS and Applications on the same (startup) disc, while storing media files on a separate, attached device. This allows the OS and Applications to work more efficiently together because the drive isn’t running around finding media files while the OS and Apps are doing their thing. Much more efficient to have media on an external device. Most consumer computers with single drives can handle simple play of media files on the same disc as the OS and applications. Getting into serious editing or special compression work is a different story.

I’d first look into whether XP has something going on with IT, rather than assuming RealPlayer is zapping anything. Do some virus clean up, de-frag and do a general testing of the OS. UNinstall RealPlayer completely, and download a fresh version.

If you’re still having problems, contact RealPlayer Support. If something is conflicting between XP and RP, they will know.

…TV

By Allan Green Posted on November 27, 2012

Tom, thank you most warmly for your very helpful advice. I will certainly go through the steps
you describe and let you know how I get on.
Best wishes,
Allan

By Allan Green Posted on November 27, 2012

Tom, I have just gone through all the steps you prescribe and they worked like magic! I am most grateful for the time and trouble you have taken to help me. I am 77 years old and am very easily baffled by modern technology!

By Tom Volotta Posted on November 27, 2012

Allan,

Great! I was more than happy to have helped out. Now that you know the right path for this task, the more you use RealPlayer, the easier it becomes. You’ll also start to explore many of the other features to do more.

Oh, technology has no age restrictions when it comes to baffling people!

…TV

By tulsianandpatel Posted on December 1, 2012

Hi Tom,
Again apologies for the delay in getting back to you after (28-10-12). However thanks a lot for your knowledge, guidance and support. I have finally managed to convert FLV to Iphone4 video format. When I clicked it on Convert button for Iphone 4 it was giving the pop-up to upgrade to real player plus. Now when I clicked on Details I noticed it was set by default to real player plus upgrade which I changed to iphone 4. Clicking on Convert now converts FLV to Iphone4 format. I put this video in a directory and synced Iphone and it’s on my iphone. Please continue the good work you are doing in helping out so many people with your knowledge, time and effort. Wish there were more like you for other technical areas. You are help has been an amazing. Thanks again.

By Tom Volotta Posted on December 3, 2012

Tulslanadpatel,

You’re most welcome. Thank you getting back, and for the kind words. Happy to be of help.

Glad you got things working the way you wanted. Now that you’ve found what options the “Details” button offers, don’t be shy about poking around elsewhere under the hood in RealPlayer’s preferences, settings and various features available through different menus. Experiment with a media file that isn’t important to you (or a copy of one that is), and see what kind of things you can do.

Using computer software falls in line with the general notion of the “80-20” rule, aka the Pareto Principle. It can be applied in many situations. For software, 80-20 could be interpreted to mean that only 20% of the software’s features and capabilities are accessed by 80% of the users. If you break through that 20% barrier by digging deeper into what RealPlayer can do, you’ll find yourself doing more interesting and productive things, doing them better and more efficiently, and having more fun while you’re at it.

…TV

By Tim Posted on December 9, 2012

Hi-
i have a problem with some of my videos clips in that i can play them back on VLC with both images and audio but on windows media player and movie maker it only is playing back the images but no audio.
I’m trying to edit together all these tiny little video clips of our kids but without sound it kind of loses the impact.
any clues/ideas??
The clips that aren’t working were shot on my old samsung phone. After changing to an iphone those more recent clips are fine and plyback with audio and images which made we wonder if it was a format issue. Looking at the “properties” of the file of both the ones that work and the ones that don’t it says they are both MP4s but the “bit rate” on the audio files is different.
I don’t really know what that means though!!
Do i need to convert all these clips (around 200 or so) or is there an easier way??
Any help gratefully recieved

By Tom Volotta Posted on December 10, 2012

Tim,

I think you’re right. It’s the Samsung audio that’s blocking things, but the bit rate isn’t the problem. It sounds like Windows Media Player and Movie Maker don’t have the necessary codec to recognize whatever Samsung used to compress the audio in the MP4 file format (container). AAC, MP3 and Windows Media Audio are typically used by Samsung, but I don’t know how old a phone you have, so there might be something else in there.

My first attempt at a solution would be to download and install a third-party codec pack that would fill what is likely the gap. K-Lite is popular. It’s free, and comes in five versions. If you’re running a 64-bit version of Windows, go for that flavor of K-lite. Other choices in the above link are self-explainitory. If K-Lite doesn’t work, CCCP is another well-regarded codec pack. Read the installation instructions for each of the above, or any others you might try. Some are finicky about other codec packs being on the same system. You may have to uninstall one before installing the other.

Let us know if this fixes things for you.

…TV

By wil Posted on December 12, 2012

I have a one year old Sony Ericsson phone. I use the 6 mb video camera to takes some videos. I tried to convert the videos my phone camera produced in real player. I try to convert to window media player format but the real player converter does not work. I am redirected to a upgrade. I then read your tips, thanks. I downloaded quick player for real player and I can push the real player button. However after trying to convert the file it says error and it does not convert the file. I also followed your CCCP downloads. But it still says error 1 on the real player video I am trying to convert in real player coveter. Do you have any further tips. It says in the properties of the file .mp4. Thanks wil

By Tom Volotta Posted on December 12, 2012

I don’t have a Sony Ericsson phone, so can’t replicate your problem exactly. I am seeing something odd going the other direction though, RP to Sony Ericsson. I’m using RealPlayer 16. Download and install it if you haven’t already.

There are two Sony Ericsson models supported, the W760 and the Xperia X10. The Xperia X10 has “details” settings for Windows Media Video and Windows Media Audio. The W760 does not include WM.

I ran two tests converting FLV and MP4 to the Xperia. Both had Windows Media Video and Windows Media Audio as the targets. The FLV conversion worked fine. MP4 got good video, but no audio. I then went back and re-ran the MP4 conversion, but this time, selecting AAC audio instead of WMA. That worked perfectly. Not sure what the issue is, but I did see an odd file format ID in the clip info for the first MP4 file I tried to convert to both Windows Video and Audio. It read, “mp4 (video mp4 object).wmv” I don’t know exactly what that means.

Anyway, none of this really helps you, because you’re trying to go from phone to RP, I’m going the opposite direction. What is the model phone you have, and what video and audio formats, and codecs does it use? Compare that with what RP supports and you may find the problem RealPlayer doesn’t run everything. You might want to try the K-Lite codec pack. There are five, free versions. Download the one with the most features. Get the 64-bit version if that matches your system. Read the install instructions carefully. K-Lite and CCCP may not play nice together. QuickTime won’t be a problem.

Let me know what happens.

…TV

By Jen Posted on December 14, 2012

Thanks for the tip about installing Quicktime to make the RealPlayer converter work for .mp4 files. Worked like a charm!

By Tom Volotta Posted on December 14, 2012

Glad it did the trick, Jen. You’ll get a lot of mileage using the converter with MP4. If you haven’t done so yet, update to the new RealPlayer 16. Several additional features, especially for online media.

…TV

By Joy Posted on January 31, 2013

Very clearly explained. Appreciated!

By Tom Volotta Posted on January 31, 2013

Joy,

Thanks very much. Always nice to hear an article gets the message across and is useful. If you haven’t already, do the free upgrade to RealPlayer 16. Delete RP15 software first for a cleaner install. 16 handles more video file formats you can convert to MP3. If needed, upgrading to PLUS offers even more capabilities.

Thanks again for taking the time to comment.

…TV

By Tom Volotta Posted on February 6, 2013

Fausto,

Thanks a lot. It’s always nice to hear that what we’re putting up here is interesting and useful. Glad you’re back on as a Regular. Visit often. There are always new articles, covering a varied range of digital media topics being posted.

Tom, thank you for all your advice. You actually solved a couple of my issues. I am especially grateful for the tip on updating – I think it wasn’t working for me because I was trying to install RealPlayer 16 without first deleting the 15th RealPlayer. Now it worked! Thank you and have a great day! Jodie

By Tom Volotta Posted on February 11, 2013

Jodie,

You’re more than welcome. The procedure for updating software varies from application to application. Some will simply let you do the update on top of the existing version, some REQUIRE the older version to be on your machine in order to verify registration, while others work best if the old version is removed prior to installing the new one. RealPlayer updates from old to new, and even re-installs of the same version is one of those that seems to work best with a clean slate.

DO NOT take the “uninstall the old before installing the new” as a routine method for all software applications. It depends on what that application needs. Double check the instructions (that are usually provided as part of the download package) for that particular application. Some are combo, automatic Download/Install, so those are easy. Take the time to look at any “READ ME FIRST” docs with the update. Could well be worth your while.

Thanks a lot for getting back on this. You have a great day too!

…TV

By maria Posted on March 7, 2013

realplayer is not letting me convert to mp3, at first not even the “Download This Video” appeared but after trying multiple thing i was able to make it appear but then it disappeared again, i was able to download a video but now every time i try to convert it to mp3 a message telling me to upgrade to realplayer 16 by buying it stops the video from converting, how can i make the message to stop showing every time i convert a video? do i really need to buy the upgrade to be able to download and convert videos again using realplayer?

By Real Team Posted on March 8, 2013

Hi Maria,

Please be informed that Mp4 formats require H.264 codec for RealPlayer to either convert/play without prompting you with the pop-up for the Plus upgrade.

If that doesn’t work, send an email to help@real.com so that we can help you further.

By Diana Posted on March 13, 2013

THANK YOU!!!!! It worked what you told Maria to do 🙂 I downloaded QuickTime and then tried to convert and it worked. Thank you =)

By Tom Bennete Posted on April 14, 2013

Greetings. Please I just want to know how to convert an DVD video in the removable storage to my flash or memory card. I have inserted the DVD into my computer but did not know how to convert the video to audio.
Thanks for any information that might be of help to it.

By RealPlayer Team Posted on April 14, 2013

Hi Tom,

Please send an email to help@real.com Include a brief description of the issue, and copy and paste the link to this thread within the email for further assistance.

i followed what you said to other people and downloaded quicktime and set the preference in how you have it but it says and i quote, ” could not convert, files converted 0 of 1 errors

By Makeitup Posted on May 20, 2013

Hi

I can’t seem to find any answers on the website or on the help options on realplayer.

1) When I try to download a video from youtube, the downloader bar pops up but when I click it nothing happens – I also tried right click
2) I can’t convert an mp4 video to an audio file – just tried an old flv file and it worked
3) Under preferences, there is no downloading & recording options.

I have realplayer 16 installed a pc with windows 7. I’ve been trying to fix this since yesterday. I’ve uninstalled and reinstalled realplayer many times and nothing seems to be working!

Please help!

By RealPlayer Team Posted on May 20, 2013

Dear Customer,

Please send an email to help@real.com, include a brief description of the issue, copy and paste the link to this thread within the email for further assistance.

By RealPlayer Team Posted on May 22, 2013

Hi Jordan,

We’ll need to get more information about your setup. Please send an email to help@real.com so that we can help you further.

By Anna Posted on June 17, 2013

I am having the exact same problem as Jordan above. I downloaded QuickTime, so that I could convert to mp3, but now when I click convert, it immediately shows an error that reads:

Same problem as Anna…..I am willing to upgrade to Real Player Plus, but I need to be ASSURED that it will convert the mp4s to mp3s to burn on CDs for the college class I teach. I don’t mind paying the money for the upgrade, but from what I’ve read, the UPGRADED version isn’t working either. I don’t want to pay 50 bucks so you can email me.

Every time I try to download a video from youtube it downloads but I end up with no video and no audio. It doesn’t matter if the video is 1080p, 720p, or 480p all I get is a picture of roll of film in the downloader and if I hit convert it says “failed to convert”. This has been happening to me every since I upgraded to 16.0.2.32.

What’s going on?

By RealPlayer Team Posted on June 22, 2013

Hi Rhonda,

Sorry for the inconvenience, this is due to changes made at YouTube and we are working with YouTube to resolve the issue. However, try few work around steps provided in this link to fix the issue:

I am having the same problem as Ana. I am unable to convert mp4 to mp3. I upgraded to realplatyer 16 and downloaded quicktime but I am still receiving the error Files converted: 0 of 1, error 1. Please help

By Delora Pineda Posted on June 30, 2013

I am also having the same problem as Rhonda. I try to download a video and says downloading then says failed to convert. I have an icon which a play reel but am unable to play. I disabled the adobe shockwave flash object but did not work

By RealPlayer Team Posted on July 1, 2013

Hi Delora,

If the videos doesn’t play even after disabling the Shockwave Flash Object plug-in, kindly enable the plugin back. Sorry, we don’t have any ETA when this issue will be resolved, however our support team is working on high priority to resolve it at the earliest. Once it is resolved you will be notified by our support team.

By Morgan Posted on July 4, 2013

I try downloading the Quicktime, but it still will not convert the video into MP3 player. It keeps saying Convert Fail… It’s getting a bit annoying, I love you guys before, but now this update is not making me happy.

By RealPlayer Team Posted on July 4, 2013

Hi Morgan,

Please provide us some more information:

1. What is the format of the video, that you are trying to convert?
2. Does it happen to all the videos?

By Mokie Posted on July 7, 2013

I have been using RealPlayer for at least 3 years now and have never had a problem until recently.. I am no longer able to use the converter and am very frustrated with my efforts to correct this issue. If anyone knows how to correct this error can you please inform me, or inform me of a similar free program??

By RealPlayer Team Posted on July 8, 2013

Hi Mokie,

Please provide us some more information about the problem to assist you further.

By Mario Posted on July 9, 2013

Hello,

I’ve been trying to convert mp4 to mp3
Of course it did work at first due to the advertisements. Then I tried downloading Quicktime, when I went back to convert I received a 0 out 1 error alert. After that I went to IE9 tools and disabled Shock wave flash object. I followed solution 1 an tried to go to youtube and download a video. Well, I got to the video and the blue download button did not appear in the top right corner. I went to the web videos tab in the real player launcher to see if it would work there, and it did not.
really don’t know what else to do now.

I am hovering the cursor in youtube video frames but cannot get the download this video button to appear?

By RealPlayer Posted on July 17, 2013

Which browser and type of computer (mac, pc) are you using? You may need to enable a plug-in.

By Jhon Posted on July 20, 2013

Hi,

I would like to know how I can convert a downloaded video to iTunes without the green screen. Every video that I have converted into iTunes ends up with a green screen for some reason, I can only enjoy the audio but not the video.

Thanks!

By RealPlayer Team Posted on July 20, 2013

Hi Jhon,

Please provide us some more information about the problem to assist you further.

>Does it happen for all the videos that you downloaded?
>Have you tried downloading videos with different websites? (Provide us the website)
>What is the format of the downloaded video?
>Are you able to play the file in RealPlayer? (Provide us the error message if any)

By Darren Posted on July 27, 2013

I have Real Player Plus and it’s no longer converting mp4 videos to mp3. :o( Very frustrating – I’ve also installed itunes & quicktime for windows – still not converting

By RealPlayer Team Posted on July 27, 2013

Some sites have introduced a new streaming standard. We are working toward compatibility with this new format and expect to release a fix in mid-August. In the meantime, you can try the interim solution provided in this link (if you are using Internet Explorer):

Hi, I’m having the same issue as Jordan and Anna. I haven’t changed any settings/preferneces but for a while now i have been unable to download from youtube. The realplayer button apperas on the videos but when i press it, it instantly ‘downloads’ in a split second without any time or MB details and when I go to convert it says ‘Files converted: 0 out of 1 errors’

Any help?

By Santi Posted on August 31, 2013

So I have had the free real player for a year and I would convert music videos from YouTube to mp3s. But now everytime I try to convert an mp4 to mp3 I get an error message. What’s do I do to fix this problem?

If the problem persists, please send an email to help@real.com, include a brief description of the issue, copy and paste the link to this thread within the email for further assistance.

By RealPlayer Team Posted on September 1, 2013

This issue has been fixed in the latest build of RealPlayer 16, released on August 21.

If you are currently using RealPlayer Plus 16 or the free version: Please open RealPlayer, click the RealPlayer logo in the upper left, and select Check for Update. You will then be able to update your RealPlayer to the newest build.

Please note that you may need to re-enable the RealDownloader extension in your web browser as well by following this link:

After updating RealPlayer, please re-download the videos that previously received the “General Error” message.

By Eric Posted on October 22, 2013

I have used real converter in the past, but when I try to use it now I just get a prompt for the Real Player Plus. Is the Real Converter no longer part of the free real player?

By RealPlayer Team Posted on October 23, 2013

No. RealPlayer can convert files in a variety of supported formats for free. Some file requires Plus feature to play/convert. Try installing QuickTime/iTunes to enable the necessary codec for RealPlayer to play/convert .mp4 files.

After installing QuickTime/iTunes, try playing/converting the files through RealPlayer. If this doesn’t work, please send an email to help@real.com, include a brief description of the issue, copy and paste the link to this thread within the email for further assistance.

By Rhonda Posted on December 1, 2013

Ok the problem is back. I’ve checked the updates and I’m all caught up.

When I download a video using IE/ flash uninstalled it comes out as MP4 in the converter and when I click convert I get an error message: Could not convert “video” – Youtube.mp3.

Oh this also happens when I have flash for IE installed and I can’t get the download button to show for Chrome.

The fix you guys claimed isn’t working on my end.

By RealPlayer Team Posted on December 2, 2013

Sorry for the inconvenience caused!
We are aware of this that the ‘Download this Video’ option is not currently compatible with Google Chrome 31. Our technical team is working on it to resolve the issue. When we have an update on the status of this issue, we will let you know.

Note: You may need to re-download the video which you could not convert previously and now try to play and convert the videos. If the issue still persists, please send an e-mail to help@real.com

By Natalie Posted on January 12, 2014

I have the Real Player and Downloader and I’m trying to put my songs that I downloaded from YouTube onto my MP3 Player but it’s telling me that I have to upgrade to Real Player Plus 16. If I want it for free then I have to complete a partner offer, which means it’s not really free. I don’t want to upgrade at all. I just want to put my songs on my MP3 Player. How can I do this without getting the expensive upgrade or doing an expensive offer? I don’t want to pay for anything. I just want my music on my MP3 Player.

This is about a recent Realplayer Converter Software Issue.
I have been very ably and helpfully guided above hence would like to highlight this recent issue.

I have Windows 7 & IE11. I have Realplayer Converter and been using it for many months.

Now using Realplayer (v 17.0.13.2). I have downloaded videos which are saved as Flash Video .FLV .
To convert, I play the video and click on convert, select Apple iPhone 5, then Convert to Apple h.264 same directory as original file.
Apple iPhone 5 (details)

The converted file .MP4 is @ Frame Width 640 x Frame Height 480 . When I play the converted file, the duration of MP4 video file displayed is the same as the original e.g. 25:19, however the last 40 seconds to 70 seconds of the video do not appear to get converted and seen. The frame freezes and only the sound can be heard for the full duration.

I have tried this with numerous downloaded FLV files over the last 1 month and the issue is observed in all of them.
I have changed the video details in the Realplayer converter with lower specs i.e. resolution frame width 480 x frame height 320 and quality 786

kbps but the issue persisted. I have tried the iPod version as well but the same problem is there.

Earlier I was using the option of Apple iPhone 4 where the converted file .MP4 is @ Frame Width 480 x Frame Height 320. This issue was not observed then.

I will be grateful if your esteemed team at real could please help and provide guidance and solution to resolve this issue.